For Immediate Release
October 28, 2025
$1 Million Prize Recognizes Excellence in Equitable Outcomes for Students in and After College
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Aspen Institute has named Germanna Community College as one of 200 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s premier recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges.
Selected from more than 1,000 community colleges nationwide, the 200 eligible institutions were chosen based on strong and improving student outcomes data—including retention, completion, transfer, and bachelor’s attainment rates. Together, these colleges represent the diversity of the community college sector, serving students in urban, rural, and suburban areas across the country. This is the ninth cycle of the Aspen Prize since its inception in 2010, and the first time 200 colleges have been eligible, growing from 150.
“Being named among the top 200 community colleges by the Aspen Institute is a reflection of our commitment to excellence, equity, and student success,” said Dr. Van Wilson, interim president of Germanna Community College. “At Germanna, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to achieve their goals, and this recognition affirms the transformative work of our faculty and staff in helping students reach their full potential—in college, in their careers, and in their communities.”
The Aspen Prize recognizes colleges that deliver strong outcomes for all students, particularly in areas such as degree completion, transfer, and post-graduate success. Over the next 20 months, eligible colleges will undergo a rigorous review process that includes additional data collection and expert assessments, culminating in the announcement of the 2027 Aspen Prize winner in spring 2027.
“The Aspen Prize rewards colleges that achieve the kind of outcomes that actually matter to students—completing college degree programs that, in turn, lead to lifelong success,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program.“ Aspen Prize winners offer a powerful message: Community colleges can deliver the kind of life-changing education that makes the American Dream real.”
The Aspen Prize is generously funded by Ascendium Education Philanthropy and the Joyce Foundation. For a full list of eligible institutions and more on the selection process, visit The Aspen Institute's website.
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About Germanna Community College
Established in 1970 as part of the Virginia Community College System, Germanna Community College provides quality, accessible, and affordable educational opportunities for the residents of Fredericksburg and surrounding counties. The college is committed to preparing students for successful careers and lifelong learning. Learn more at germanna.edu.
About the Aspen Institute
The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization whose purpose is to ignite human potential to build understanding and create new possibilities for a better world. Founded in 1949, the Institute drives change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve society’s greatest challenges. It is headquartered in Washington, DC and has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, as well as an international network of partners. For more information, visit www.aspeninstitute.org.
Media Contacts
Germanna Community College
William Berry, Director of Marketing & Recruitment
(540) 834-1019
wberry@germanna.edu
Aspen Institute
Kristin O’Keefe, Director of Communications, College Excellence Program
(240) 351-8531
kristin.okeefe@aspeninstitute.org